News

Odell wins critics' choice award

Hotly tipped newcomer Tom Odell has been named the first male winner of the critics' choice prize at next year's Brit Awards.

The 22-year-old singer-songwriter follows in the footsteps of Adele, Emeli Sande and Jessie J who have all gone on to huge success.

West Sussex-born Tom, who has been writing songs since he was 13, released his debut EP Songs From Another Love earlier this year and has drawn acclaim for his work.

The musician has appeared on BBC2's Later... With Jools Holland and is among the acts shortlisted on the BBC's Sound Of 2013 list which aims to identify the big new acts of the forthcoming year.

Tom said: "I'm thrilled and honoured to win the Brits critics' choice award. I genuinely can't believe it. Looking at the list of amazing female artists who have won the award already, I just hope I don't let the boys down."

He was shortlisted against AlunaGeorge and Laura Mvula for the award chosen by music experts.

Brits organisers have also announced a new award to recognise the importance of UK artists overseas. The Brits global success award is expected to go to Adele to recognise her huge sales achievements.

And it may help to bury the memories of this year's event when she was cut off during her best album acceptance speech by host James Corden. But she may well face some stiff competition from One Direction and Mumford And Sons.

Brits bosses are also reintroducing the award for best British live act.

The awards take place on February 20 at London's O2 Arena, with James returning as host.